Why a Certificate Is Not the Same as Accreditation in Counselling or Psychotherapy

Graduation cap and books symbolising the first step in counselling and psychotherapy training – a certificate is the beginning, not full professional accreditation.

Regarding the Certificate in Counselling & Psychotherapy live online

1. What the ICPS (www.icps.ie) Certificate Actually Is

The Certificate in Counselling & Psychotherapy (Live Online, September Intake) from ICPS is a valuable introductory course.  This Certificate provides a foundation in counselling and psychotherapy theory and skills, and it can help you decide whether this is the right career path.

The course is also a prerequisite for progression to an Honours Bachelor’s Degree in Counselling & Psychotherapy. It includes 72 hours of live online classes, 128 hours of independent study, and offers 200 CPD credits. It is accredited by the CPD Standards Office and the Professional Development Consortium.

2. Certificate ≠ Accreditation

While a certificate demonstrates commitment and provides core knowledge, it does not qualify you to practise as a counsellor or psychotherapist.

In Ireland, to work professionally in this field, you must complete a degree-level (QQI Level 7 or Level 8) or postgraduate qualification in counselling/psychotherapy, followed by accreditation or registration with a recognised professional body such as:

• IACP Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy

• APCP Association of Professional Counsellors and Psychotherapists

• ICP Irish Council for Psychotherapy

• PSI Psychological Society of Ireland (for psychologists)

Accreditation means you have completed substantial training, supervised clinical practice, and you agree to follow a strict code of ethics.

3. Why the Difference Matters

• Clarity for Clients

  A certificate is an introduction to the field. Accreditation or registration confirms you are professionally trained, supervised, and accountable.

• Ethical Standards

  Accredited counsellors and psychotherapists must adhere to codes of practice that protect clients’ wellbeing.

• Career Pathway

  Certificates are often stepping stones. Only with further study and accreditation can you work independently as a recognised professional.

4. The Pathway to Professional Practice

For those considering counselling or psychotherapy as a career, the typical journey in Ireland is:

Certificate level training - an introduction and preparation for further study.

Degree or postgraduate training - QQI-recognised programmes with clinical placements and supervised practice.

Accreditation or registration - with IACP, APCP, ICP, or another recognised body, demonstrating readiness to practise professionally.

Summary Table

What You Hold	What It Means	What It Does NOT Provide
Certificate (e.g. ICPS)	Introductory knowledge; gateway to further study	Not sufficient for practice
Degree / Postgraduate Training	Meets academic standards; includes supervised placements	Still requires professional accreditation
Accreditation / Registration	Recognition by IACP, APCP, ICP etc confirms readiness to practise	Requires years of training and supervision

The ICPS Counselling and Psychotherapy Certificate is an excellent starting point if you’re interested in counselling or psychotherapy, but it’s just that, a beginning. To work as a counsellor or psychotherapist in Ireland, you will need to complete further accredited training and obtain professional accreditation or registration.

This pathway protects clients, upholds ethical standards, and ensures that when you enter the profession, you are fully prepared to provide safe and effective support.

For further information on all our accredited courses please click here